The epidemiology of female pelvic floor dysfunction

Abstract

Pelvic floor dysfunction, specifically urinary and fecal incontinence, is thought to be widespread. Prevalence figures for these disorders vary greatly. This review highlights the accepted prevalence and incidence figures for pelvic floor dysfunction and their relative age distribution in women. Remission and natural history is examined with an emphasis on gaps in our knowledge. The limited data on racial differences in the epidemiology of this disorder are also reviewed.